The new amphibious assault ship America left a shipyard in Pascagoula, Mississippi Friday on a journey that will eventually bring it to San Diego, its permanent homeport. The 840-foot vessel will first travel to San Francisco, where it will be commissioned on October 11th. America will head for Naval Base San Diego a short time later. The $3.2 billion warship carries an assortment of aircraft, including helicopters and Harrier jets. America is scheduled to become one of the first ships to stock the new F-35 Joint Strike Fighter.

Amphibious assault ship, America class

A next-generation large deck platform whose expanded air power will improve the Navy's ability to transport, embark and protect Marine amphibious forces.